High school boys' track and field 2012-13 preview: Depth might tip scales in Monsignor Farrell's direction

Senior John Bentivegna, left, is one of many key returnees for Monsignor Farrell.Staten Island Advance/Derek Alvez

By Jason PaderonStaten Island Advance

Indoor track and field season brings so many new elements into play — running sprints and relays, jumping, throwing and hurdling — which is why Monsignor Farrell, by sheer numbers, looks as though it will be a heavy favorite to win its 42nd Staten Island indoor title.

However, with St. Joseph by-the Sea and Island cross country champs MSIT knocking on the door, nothing will be a given.

Starting with the Lions, new Farrell coaches Mike Proffitt and John Sexton will have the task of managing 80 or so athletes without abandoning the upperclassmen, which are among the best in the area.

Injuries and illness plagued the Lions’ cross country season leaving the door open for MSIT to take the crown. Will Farrell’s depth be enough to hold off the hard charging Vikings and Sea Gulls?

2012-13 outlook: Under the former St. Peter’s coach, Kevin Donofrio, the team had its most successful cross country season and is looking to continue that indoors. Numbers are up from last year with a large freshman class. “We hope to improve every week and build a foundation for the coming years,” said Donofrio. 

2012-2013 outlook: Banks says the PSAL city cross country championship won by the Warriors last month energized recruiting efforts in the school. Curtis will be depending on a fresh crop of young athletes to help make it more balanced. “Our seasonal goal is to develop a more complete team with the ability to cover all events and to generate solid performances during the championship season,” said Banks. 

2012-13 outlook: With more than 80 athletes, the Lions won’t have trouble covering all events. The Lions have season goals of winning Sectionals, Islands and placing at Intersectionals as well as competing in high-profile meets such as Millrose and Boston. “We will rely on a large, strong nucleus of upperclass veterans to carry us and teach the underclassmen how to be athletes and compete,” said Mike Proffitt. 

2012-13 outlook: “We do not have a cross country team, so we are behind in our development,” Chris App said. “However, we do feel we will be strong in the sprints and have a decent amount of runners in the mid-distance to long-distance areas. This is an area we have been trying to develop. Our team goal is to work hard and keep getting better.” 

2012-13 outlook: Several participants sat out a year, but will be returning for competition, aiding in the development of a very young team. “We have freshman who truly give 100 percent,” Jackson said, “and hopefully will bring us success and inspire others to join our team.” 

2012-2013 outlook: Mitchell says the team had a sub-par cross country season and is looking to make up for it on the track. “The Raider men will push themselves, as a team, making a mark in event they contest,” added Mitchell. 

2012-13 outlook: With over 45 underclassmen, Mancusi will be looking to spread out the talent. “We’re expecting our mid-distance group to rebound and run some fast relays,” Mancusi said. “We’d like to qualify as many relays and individuals for the Nationals and Penn Relays. We’re looking to put forth our best team efforts at the Islands and the Sectionals.” 

2012-13 outlook: Spokesman Steve Corrigan reports the Falcons are ready every day of the week. Improvement was noted in cross country and the team has an improved level of preparedness. “We have reset our level of success and will strive for nothing less,” added Corrigan. 